Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a well-balanced soup with gnocchi, chicken, and a medley of vegetables. It is a delicious and satisfying one-pot meal that is reminiscent of the popular restaurant version, but made in the comfort of your own home! For another delicious Olive Garden copycat, try my Zuppa Tuscana Soup, too!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Vegetables: For the medley of vegetables, I added yellow onion, carrots, and celery. For the loveliest presentation, julienne the carrots. Or, buy shredded carrots to add to the soup.
Chicken Broth: The base of the soup is a chicken broth with heavy whipping cream added for creaminess. You could substitute chicken stock. You could also substitute half and half or milk for the heavy cream for a little lighter version.
Gnocchi: I added potato gnocchi to the soup, the most widely known type of gnocchi. It is a type of pasta that is typically made from a combination of potatoes, flour, and sometimes eggs. They are small, soft dough dumplings. Sizes and quality will vary, so be sure to pick your favorite.
Chicken: Adding rotisserie chicken to the soup is an easy way to add protein since it is already cooked! Leftover shredded chicken would also be a good option.
Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach can be used in this soup. If using frozen, be sure it has thawed with any excess water removed. You could also leave it out if preferred.
How To Serve Chicken Gnocchi Soup
There are a few ways to serve Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Here are some delicious ways to serve it:
- Garlic Breadsticks (just like at the Olive Garden)
- Wedge Salad
- Serve the soup in a bread bowl (yum)!
- Crusty bread (like a French baguette)
- Top with homemade croutons.
- Focaccia Bread
How To Julienne Carrots
For a professional look in this soup, julienne the carrots. It is a cutting technique that results in long, thin strips roughly the size of matchsticks. It also ensures that the carrots cook relatively quickly and evenly. To julienne carrots, follow these steps:
- Peel the carrots to remove the outer skin.
- Trim off the ends.
- Thinly slice the carrots at a deep angle, about 1/8-1/4 inch thick.
- Stack a few of the sliced pieces.
- With the stacked pieces, cut them lengthwise to create thin matchstick-shaped pieces. Aim for uniform thickness for even cooking.
How To Store Chicken Gnocchi Soup
To store Chicken Gnocchi Soup, first, let it cool completely. Next, store it in an airtight container (or separate into a few containers) in the refrigerator. It will last up to 3-4 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I Freeze Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. To freeze, first, let it come to room temperature. Then, store it in freezer-safe containers, leaving some room at the top for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. Freezing the soup may change the texture, but it will still taste great!
Chicken Gnocchi Soup {Olive Garden Copycat}
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced (about ½ cup)
- 2 medium carrots, julienned
- 2 ribs celery, diced (about ½ cup)
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 5 cups (40 ounces) chicken broth
- 1 cup (238 g) heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 16 ounces potato gnocchi, uncooked
- 2 cups (280 g) rotisserie chicken, cubed
- 1 cup (30 g) fresh baby spinach
- salt, to taste
- parsley, for garnish
- parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions
- To a large pot over medium heat, add oil. Once hot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the onions are softened (about 3-5 minutes).
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add gnocchi. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or according to the package instructions. Fully cooked gnocchi will float to the surface when ready.
- Stir in chicken and spinach. Reduce heat to low. Continue cooking until chicken is warmed through and spinach is wilted, about 5 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley and parmesan cheese. Serve warm.
Video
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What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
This is what a comforting chicken soup should taste like! Creamy and smooth, with savory bites of chicken, veggies, and tender gnocchi in every spoonful.
Elizabeth
Wow! I think this homemade version of the soup is better than the restaurant! Seriously, it is so delicious and full of fresh vegetables. Perfect.
Rachael
I love gnocchi, especially in this soup. Great flavor and would be perfect with some breadsticks!
Annabelle
This soup is soup-er tasty! The gnocchi is soft and takes on some of the flavor of the broth, absolutely delicious!
Bella
This is exactly what I'm looking for in a soup! Creamy, flavorful, with hints of freshness, protein, and some delicious gnocchi! A wonderful soup to try!
Selena
Delicious, comforting chicken soup! I love the creaminess of it!
How could I make this in the crock pot? Or am I able?
I just made this today and it was a huge hit! My husband said outstanding ❤️
Can you freeze chicken gnocchi soup